HTCI

Like the ticking of a clock in a noisy room, secularism’s steady existence has blended into the background of my life—always there, just not always noticeable. As the winter holidays approach, the reality of secularism becomes all the more apparent; the clock’s ticking becomes more audible. 

In our society, putting an inflatable Santa Claus in the front yard is more acceptable than erecting a nativity scene and wishing friends “happy holidays” is more politically correct than saying “Merry Christmas.” The Christmas season has become a time of watching television specials that give little or no mention of the real reason for the festivities and shopping frantically for gifts. Like the money spent on those purchases, the holiday has lost much of its original meaning over time.

In the past, I have received criticism for wishing a friend a “Merry Christmas” and the sting of her words has stuck with me. Ignoring or shaming individuals whose beliefs differ from our own and are brave enough to be vocal about them is not the answer. Instead, I hope that as students of a remarkably diverse school, we can all try to be more accepting and supportive of each other in the coming weeks.

My wish is for the revival of Christmas as it is meant to be remembered: as a celebration of the nativity story. Other students’ wishes may differ, but I see no reason to hide my beliefs and traditions because of that possibility. Let us not be afraid to say “Merry Christmas” to friends before leaving for winter break if that is what we celebrate, or to feel comfortable mentioning whatever holidays align with our beliefs.

Even beyond Christmas and the string of coming holidays, my hope is for us to be proud of what we believe in. As the angels proclaimed to the shepherds on that night so long ago, do not be afraid.

The views in this column do not necessarily reflect the views of the HiLite staff. Reach Emily Dexter at [email protected].